Fall is right around the corner! The trees are beginning to turn golden, the air cooling at night. Stores have already begun to put out fall decor, and back to school is right around the corner. As we transition seasons, its important to make sure our homes are just as prepared as we are.
Here are some fall home care items to tackle before summer slips away:
- Check Your Detectors: "With furnaces turned on, the windows closed and portable heaters humming along, fall is a great time to make sure your smoke and CO detectors are working. Check batteries and expiration dates – smoke detectors are typically good for 10 years, and CO detectors last for about six years" (Family Handyman).
- Clean Your Gutters: "Your roof's drainage system annually diverts thousands of gallons of water from your home's exterior and foundation walls—so it's vital to keep this system flowing smoothly. Clogged gutters can lead to damaged exterior surfaces and water in your basement. Gutters also more prone to rust and corrosion when clogged. Before the leaves fly this fall, clean your gutters, then cover them with mesh gutter guards to keep debris from returning" (Better Homes & Gardens).
- Aerate Your Soil: Particularly after this dry summer of water restrictions, aerating "relieves compaction caused by foot traffic and creates extra pore space in the soil, allowing air, nutrients and water to enter. All of that helps roots to thrive. Aerate your lawn at least once a year, preferably in the fall" (Family Handyman).
- Ensure Your Humidifier is Working: "Dry winter air can be tough on your skin and airways, but did you know it can also make fine wood more prone to cracking? You and your home will feel more comfortable if you keep your central humidifier in tip-top shape during the months it's running. First, inspect the plates or pads, and if necessary, clean them in a strong laundry detergent solution. Rinse and scrape off mineral deposits with a wire brush or steel wool" (Better Homes & Gardens).
These are just a handful of items to check on before Pumpkin Spice hits the menu! Take care of your home, and it will take care of you.
(Image via Canva)
Posted by Ken Richter on
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